1961 AC Cobra vs. 2009 Acura RL
To start off, 2009 Acura RL is newer by 48 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1961 AC Cobra. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1961 AC Cobra would be higher. At 4,265 cc (8 cylinders), 1961 AC Cobra is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Acura RL (300 HP @ 6300 RPM) has 44 more horse power than 1961 AC Cobra. (256 HP @ 5800 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2009 Acura RL should accelerate faster than 1961 AC Cobra.
Because 2009 Acura RL is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1961 AC Cobra. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2009 Acura RL will offer significantly more control. With that said, do keep in mind that many other factors such as speed and the wear on your tires can also have significant impact on traction and control. Let's talk about torque, 2009 Acura RL (367 Nm @ 5000 RPM) has 2 more torque (in Nm) than 1961 AC Cobra. (365 Nm @ 4800 RPM). This means 2009 Acura RL will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1961 AC Cobra. 2009 Acura RL has automatic transmission and 1961 AC Cobra has manual transmission. 1961 AC Cobra will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2009 Acura RL will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1961 AC Cobra | 2009 Acura RL | |
| Make | AC | Acura |
| Model | Cobra | RL |
| Year Released | 1961 | 2009 |
| Body Type | Roadster | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 4265 cc | 3664 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 256 HP | 300 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5800 RPM | 6300 RPM |
| Torque | 365 Nm | 367 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4800 RPM | 5000 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.0:1 | 11.0:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | 4WD |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Length | 3850 mm | 4980 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1560 mm | 1850 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1250 mm | 1460 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2290 mm | 2810 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 68 L | 73 L |
